This beautifully restored, state-of-the-art, three-screen theater is one of few non-profit theaters in the United States. The venue exhibits independent documentary and narrative films, classics, retrospectives, features, international works and hosts special events with filmmakers from around the world year-round. The Film Center serves approximately 200,000 patrons annually.

Through innovative educational programs, 100 free annual screenings for school groups and their families, filmmaking workshops and a year-long cinema appreciation curriculum, CFI Education touches the lives of over 6,500 children annually through a broad range of activities, ranging from Q&A sessions with top international filmmakers to hands-on seminars with industry professionals CFI Education promotes tolerance and a sophisticated world view by expanding classroom topics across borders and disciplines.

Founded in 1978 by California Film Institute director Mark Fishkin, the 11-day festival is held every October, screening over 200 innovative US and international films for over 60,000 film lovers. MVFF has established an impressive track record for launching new films and new filmmakers, and has earned a reputation as a filmmakers’ festival by offering a high-profile, prestigious, non-competitive environment for celebrating the best in independent and world cinema. The Mill Valley Film Festival is consistently rated one of the top film festivals in the nation.

THE CALIFORNIA FILM INSTITUTE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which relies on the generosity of its community to thrive.